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Potato and Cheese Pierogi
Medium 45 min prep 20 min cook 6 servings

Potato and Cheese Pierogi

Potato and Cheese Pierogi preparation

Introduction

What to expect

Tender dumplings are filled with creamy potato and cheese, then boiled and lightly pan-fried for golden edges.

The story

Behind the recipe

Pierogi are filled dumplings originating from Poland, with a historical recipe appearing at least since 1682 in Poland's first cookbook. Their exact origin remains debated, with theories suggesting roots in Asia or introduction via the Silk Road or Kievan Rus'. Over centuries, pierogi evolved within Polish culture, initially seen as peasant food before gaining prominence across all social classes. Polish and Ukrainian immigrants brought pierogi to Canada and the United States, where they became a staple in regions with large Central and Eastern European populations, symbolizing cultural pride and communal traditions.

Method

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix flour, egg, water, and salt into a smooth dough; rest for 30 minutes.

  2. 2

    Boil and mash the potatoes, then combine with cheese and season with salt.

  3. 3

    Roll the dough thin and cut into 3-inch rounds.

  4. 4

    Place a spoonful of filling on each round, fold, and pinch to seal tightly.

  5. 5

    Boil the pierogi in salted water until they float, then drain.

  6. 6

    Fry in butter with onions until golden, and serve with sour cream.

Adaptations

Variations & suggestions

Swap the cheese: use farmer’s cheese, sharp cheddar, or creamy ricotta depending on what you have.

Add extras to the filling: try caramelized onions, sauerkraut, or crisp bacon bits for a different flavor.

Top it differently: serve with caramelized onions, crispy shallots, or a dollop of Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.

Make ahead: freeze uncooked pierogi on a floured tray, then transfer to a bag; boil straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Leftovers: cooked pierogi keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in a buttered skillet.